How to Prepare the Perfect Steak at Home

Even the most passionate seafood lovers like us have a soft spot for steak. ‘Surf and Turf’ is an iconic pairing adored by generations of diners, and at Truluck’s we’ve gone above and beyond the classic filet mignon and introduced an entire menu of USDA prime steaks, cut in house then aged, seasoned, and broiled to perfection.

As with seafood, the world of steak is brimming with variety and delicious possibility, and many of the same basic principles for preparing the best seafood apply to beef as well. Start with high-quality ingredients. Thoughtfully enhance flavor. Prepare simply and enjoy. And thankfully, you don’t have to be a trained professional to cook a great steak at home. Follow these simple tips from our very own Chef Thomas and you’ll be amazed by the results.

Select a Quality Steak

Cooking a great steak is all about highlighting the natural flavor of the beef. So for the best end result, choose the best raw ingredients. Start by sourcing high-quality beef from a reputable purveyor, like your local butcher shop. We all love filet mignon and ribeye, but a knowledgeable butcher can also offer recommendations on their other favorite cuts, often for better prices.

Don’t Cook it Cold

With your precious steak safely home, you want to give the meat time to come to room temperature before cooking. Why? When a cold protein is introduced to high heat, it can constrict and become tough. Waiting 30-45 minutes before cooking can result in a juicier, more tender steak. It also provides the perfect opportunity to add seasoning.

Add Flavor with Seasoning

As your steak comes to ambient temperature, it’s time to add flavor. Season generously on both sides with a blend that accentuates the natural flavors of the meat. We recommend Truluck’s Superior Steak Seasoning, our special, hand-crafted blend that enhances flavor and produces that irresistible classic steakhouse crust. Rubbing the steak with a small amount of good olive oil will help the seasoning adhere to the meat. If you don’t have steak seasoning, a liberal sprinkling of kosher salt helps bring out the flavor as well.

Sizzle, Sear & Caramelize

Whether you’re using a grill, broiler, or cast-iron pan, preheating to a sizzling hot temperature is crucial for developing a good sear. Cook your steak undisturbed for several moments on each side to allow the surface sugars to caramelize and deepen in color. This browning is also called the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction that occurs when proteins and sugars come in contact with heat, resulting in a delicious array of complex flavors and aromas. Searing also helps to seal in the meat’s juices.

Let your steak rest!

It’s hard to overstate the importance of this step. You’ve done the work and you’re so close to enjoying your perfect steak. Now try your best to be patient for just a few minutes more. After removing from heat, let the meat rest for about 10 minutes. Resting allows the meat’s juices to redistribute throughout the steak. By slicing too soon after cooking, all of those juices — and flavor! — rush out, resulting in a steak that’s dry and bland. Remember, delicious things come to those who wait.

Bathe in Butter

While your steak rests, add one last luxurious layer by finishing with melted butter. A bit more richness will help to balance the seasoning and make every bite a harmonious and remarkably flavorful experience.

We hope these tips from Chef Thomas give you the tools and confidence to fire up the grill and make tonight your best steak night yet. For more inspiration, join us at Truluck’s and discover why great steak will always have a place alongside the ocean’s finest seafood. Your table is waiting.